I was really tempted to enter last year when we were in Melbourne, but decided against it and was really pleased that I did, because it was absolutely bucketing with rain.

Saturday in Melbourne was glorious and warm and sparkling. On Sunday we awoke to pouring rain – like, torrential rain. We were staying pretty close to the route so I was undeterred and found myself completely drenched to the undies within about 5 minutes after leaving the hotel room. It seemed rather pointless to wear rain gear, which was good as I didn’t actually have any with me.

There were lots of participants in the 4km run, but the atmosphere was a little flat – most probably because of the rain. Seriously – so. much. rain.

I’d brought along a protein ball for brekkie to take with my anti-inflammatory, but didn’t have time to grab a coffee before I left the hotel. I felt like I was struggling quite a bit – I hadn’t realised how the lack of coffee would impact me (a lot). I’d expected the route to be very flat, so was surprised to be confronted by a steepish hill quite early on. I usually try to pick people to catch and pass, but this time I just concentrated on trying to keep a pace of 6:30 or under.

No coffee and being drenched to the skin are not ideal combinations! So I was really, really thrilled to beat my goal time and my stretch! And I finished in the top 21% of all participants and the top 15% of my age group (pleasing because I am at the VERY old end of my group).

Also surprising and pleasing was that my cadence was all green – normally I have many orange dots – which is not good. Maybe I need less coffee more often.

And I am chuffed to have another photo of myself smiling while running – I still can’t quite believe that those are my arms. All the muscles!

I have no idea where run #2 will be. I think at this point Japan is probably a bit of a stretch. Most likely I’ll be seeking out something in the Nation’s Capital.

yes! not sure when you’re in Japan but the 5k run with the wind (just outside nation’s capital) in October is brilliant day out. http://runwiththewind.com.au I won’t be keeping pace but would definitely be there if you choose it

The only daunting hill is the 100 metres at the start but personally I have no problem in walking the hard bits. I know you are more driven than me but since I have not run 100m in more than 6 months I don’t think there is any question that you’ll outpace me!